Lafite Rothschild Pauillac 1986

100 points Robert Parker (Bordeaux Book, 3rd ed.): "The 1986 possesses outstanding richness, a deep color, medium body, a graceful, harmonious texture, and superb length. The penetrating fragrance of cedar, chestnuts, minerals, and rich fruit is a hallmark of this wine. Powerful, dense, rich, and tannic, as well as medium to full-bodied, with awesome extraction of fruit, this Lafite has immense potential. Patience is required. Anticipated maturity: 2000-2030. [Jan 1998]"

100 points Jane Anson (Inside Bordeaux): " (69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot). The tannins remain evident, fully in tact, and overall this 1986 is young, profound, full of spiced herbs and freshly turned-over earth. It needs time in the bottle or carafe, because although there is more evident charm in the 1985 on first opening, this is the vintage of the pair that will be around for the longest. Dense black fruits abound, along with cigar box, black tea and slate. In its youth it was described as tannic, solid, almost austere, and it is astonishing how it has kept that character over the decades. There are still nuaces here that will be revealed over the decades to come, so be sure to give it time to unwind if you are opening any time over the next decade. 45hl/h yield. The famous Ricardo Bofill circular cellar was under construction at this point. Alcohol 12.5%. Drink: 2021-2040. (7/8/21)"

19.5/20 points Clive Coates (The Wines of Bordeaux): "Medium-full colour, barely mature. The nose is lovely. Gentle (by First Growth 1986 standards) but very ripe and classy. Medium-full body. Some tannin. Very lovely balance. Very lovely fruit. This is long and intense and classy. (2004)"